Sunderland want playmaker in his prime – report

The Black Cats look to be in pole position to sign talented Argentinian midfielder Ever Banega, according to a report from The Daily Mail. The exciting 25 year old already has 24 senior caps for Argentina and has impressed in both Europe and South America.

Since joining Valencia, he has spent seasons on loan at both Atletico Madrid and Newell Old Boys. However, he is keen to ply his trade in the UK in a bid to ensure he can get back into his national side, having been left out of this year’s World Cup squad.

The playmaker would add such much needed creativity to Wearside since the departure of Stephan Sessegnon to West Brom.

Sunderland arguably need to bring in a number of players following the departure of the likes of Craig Gardner and Phil Bardsley as well as a collection of loan players returning to their parent clubs.

The continuing speculation over the future of Jack Colback also means that Gus Poyet will have to look to bring in additional midfielders to cover the gaps left in the squad and add more depth.

The news comes in the wake of the announcement that Seb Larsson has signed a new long contract, keeping his at the Stadium of Light until 2017. Speaking to the club’s official website the midfielder said:

“I feel that this is a club moving in the right direction and I want to be part of it. I had a few options but I want to be at Sunderland and I’m looking forward to the new season.”

Coupled with the signing of Billy Jones from West Brom and Jordi Gomez from Wigan, it appears that Gus Poyet’s rebuilding job is stepping up a gear. Continuing this early business in the transfer market is sure to keep Sunderland fans happy and will no doubt provide plenty of optimism for next season. Nathan Gibson